Ellerslie Road Stand at Loftus Road football stadium, filled with spectators during a match

Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium

Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium: Comprehensive Visitor Guide, Tickets, and London Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium, formerly known as Loftus Road, is a historic football venue in Shepherd’s Bush, West London. For over a century, it has been the home of Queens Park Rangers (QPR) Football Club and a pillar of the local community. More than just a sporting arena, the stadium stands as a testament to resilience, social advocacy, and the enduring legacy of Kiyan Prince—a promising QPR academy player whose tragic passing inspired a powerful movement against youth violence.

This guide provides all the essential information for visitors, including history, architectural highlights, ticketing, visitor hours, accessibility, travel tips, nearby attractions, and the stadium’s role in supporting social change. Whether you’re a passionate football fan, a history enthusiast, or interested in the stadium’s community impact, this resource will help you plan a memorable and meaningful visit.

For the latest updates and event details, visit the official QPR website and learn more about the foundation at The Kiyan Prince Foundation. Additional information and practical travel advice can be found at Around the Grounds and BBC Sport.

Loftus Road Stadium South Africa Road entrance

South Africa Road entrance of Loftus Road Stadium, home of Queen’s Park Rangers Football Club

Historical Background and Evolution
Architectural Features and Innovations
The Stadium’s Social Mission and Community Impact
Visiting the Stadium: Hours, Tickets & Booking
Getting There and Accessibility
Matchday Experience and Facilities
Nearby Attractions and Accommodation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Further Information
References

Historical Background and Evolution

Origins and Early Development

The stadium was first opened in 1904 and became the home of Shepherd’s Bush F.C. before QPR made it their permanent ground in 1963. Loftus Road quickly became synonymous with QPR’s identity. Over the decades, it has hosted not only football but also rugby matches and other sporting events, reflecting its adaptability and significance within London’s sporting landscape (Around the Grounds).

Architectural Changes

The stadium has seen several renovations, including the addition of all-seater stands, executive boxes, and improved safety features. In 1981, it became the first professional British football ground to install an artificial Omniturf pitch, which was later replaced by natural grass in 1988 (Around the Grounds).

Shared Tenancy and Name Changes

The venue has hosted teams such as the London Wasps (rugby union) and Fulham FC during renovations at their own grounds. In 2019, following a supporter vote, the stadium was renamed the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium, underlining its commitment to community and youth empowerment (BBC Sport; The Independent). In 2022, the stadium reverted to Loftus Road, and in 2024, it was renamed MATRADE Loftus Road Stadium after a new sponsorship deal (G3 Football).

Architectural Features and Innovations

The stadium is renowned for its compact, bowl-like design, with four closely connected stands: Loftus Engineering Stand (The Loft), Stanley Bowles Stand, Bhatia Stand, and Achilleus Security Stand. This configuration creates a unique, intimate atmosphere, amplifying crowd noise and bringing spectators close to the pitch (Football Tripper; FeverUp).

Capacity stands at approximately 18,439, with away fans typically seated in the upper School End. The stadium’s close-knit design ensures excellent sightlines and a vibrant matchday environment (Away Games).

Honoring Kiyan Prince

The renaming of the stadium in 2019 honored Kiyan Prince, who lost his life in 2006 while intervening to stop a fight. The Kiyan Prince Foundation, led by his father Dr. Mark Prince OBE, works to combat youth violence and empower young people through education, mentorship, and sports-based programs (The Kiyan Prince Foundation; SWLondoner).

Community Initiatives

The stadium regularly hosts community events, educational workshops, and charitable campaigns, including the “Game 4 Grenfell” charity match in 2017 (Wikipedia). The QPR Community Trust and the Kiyan Prince Foundation have reached thousands of young people annually, promoting positive choices and supporting youth affected by violence (Civil Society).

Cultural Resonance

The legacy of Kiyan Prince is celebrated through matchday tributes, the annual “Kiyan Prince Goal of the Season” award, and awareness campaigns. The foundation’s efforts have influenced broader conversations about youth safety, including contributing to national policies on knife crime (FootTheBall).

Visiting the Stadium: Hours, Tickets & Booking

Visiting Hours

Matchdays: Stadium opens to ticket holders approximately 90 minutes before kickoff and closes about 30 minutes after the final whistle.
Non-Matchdays: Guided tours are offered by appointment and must be booked in advance.
Check for Updates: Always consult the official QPR website for the latest on visiting hours and tour schedules.

Tickets

Purchase Online: QPR Ticketing Portal
Box Office: Available on matchdays, but advance purchase is strongly recommended.
Ticket Categories: General admission, family seating, accessible seating, and hospitality packages.
Prices: Typically range from £25 to £39 for adults, with concessions for juniors, seniors, and students.

For unique matchday experiences with guided fan tours, see Homefans.

Getting There and Accessibility

Location

Address: South Africa Road, Shepherd’s Bush, London W12 7PJ (FeverUp)

Public Transport

Underground:
- White City (Central Line): 5 min walk.
- Wood Lane (Circle/Hammersmith & City Lines): 7 min walk.
- Shepherd’s Bush Market (Hammersmith & City Line): 10 min walk.
Overground: Shepherd’s Bush Overground: 15 min walk.
Bus: Routes 72, 220, 283, and 295 serve the area (TfL).
Car: Driving is discouraged due to limited parking. Nearest pay-and-display at Westfield London (Westfield Parking).

Accessibility

Step-Free Access: Available at designated entrances.
Accessible Seating: Dedicated spaces for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues.
Toilets and Facilities: Accessible toilets and companion seating in all stands.
Contact: Notify the club’s Disability Liaison Officer in advance (QPR Accessibility).

Matchday Experience and Facilities

Stadium Layout

Stands: South Africa Road Stand (family-friendly), Loftus Road Stand, Ellerslie Road Stand, School End (away fans).
Atmosphere: Intimate, vibrant, and inclusive with all seats offering excellent views (Football Tripper).

Facilities

Food & Drink: Multiple kiosks serve hot and cold snacks, vegetarian options, and beverages. Most accept cashless payment (QPR Matchday Info).
Merchandise: The QPR Superstore sells official kits, scarves, and souvenirs (QPR Superstore).
Toilets & Baby Changing: Available throughout the stadium.
Wi-Fi: Free public Wi-Fi in concourses.

Pre- and Post-Match

Local Pubs & Eateries: Shepherd’s Bush and White City offer a range of options for dining and socializing.
Fan Zones: Family-friendly entertainment on select matchdays (QPR Events).

Stadium Tours

Booking: Tours must be reserved in advance (QPR Stadium Tours).
Experience: Access to dressing rooms, tunnel, and pitchside.

Nearby Attractions and Accommodation

Attractions

Westfield London: Premier shopping and dining destination.
Museum of Brands: Explore consumer culture history (FeverUp).
Kensington Palace & Notting Hill: Easily accessible via public transport.

Accommodation

Hotels: Dorsett Shepherds Bush, Hilton London Kensington, Ibis London Shepherds Bush, and others (Booking.com).
Tip: Book early for best rates on matchdays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the stadium’s visiting hours?
A: Open on matchdays 90 minutes before kick-off; tours are by appointment.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online at QPR’s ticket portal, by phone, or at the box office.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited. Use public transport or park at Westfield London.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, on non-matchdays. Book in advance.

Q: Are facilities accessible for disabled visitors?
A: Yes, with accessible seating, toilets, and step-free access.

Q: What family facilities are available?
A: Family seating, activities, and baby changing areas.

Q: Are there COVID-19 restrictions?
A: As of June 2025, none, but check UK Government Guidance for updates.

Conclusion and Further Information

Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium is more than just a football ground—it is a living symbol of sporting heritage and community empowerment. Whether you’re attending a QPR match, taking a tour, or supporting its social initiatives, your visit supports a powerful legacy of resilience, hope, and positive change.

For the latest news, ticketing, and events, consult the official QPR website, follow QPR and the Kiyan Prince Foundation on social media, and download the Audiala app for exclusive content and updates.